Police investigate school threat at McGovern Elementary in Winston

WINSTON, Ore. -- The Winston Police Department is investigating a school threat found on a restroom wall at McGovern Elementary School in Winston.

According to Winston Police Chief Scott Gugel, a written threat found in a school restroom saying a “shoot out” planned for March 12.

Police found out about the threat Tuesday morning and said they will be monitoring the school heavily that day.

The investigation is ongoing.

We reached out to the school district Tuesday, but have not yet heard back.

A letter sent to parents by McGovern Principal Jeremy P. Williams dated March 6 explained the situation:

The full text of the letter is reprinted below:

Dear Parents and Guardians of MES Students:

On March 6, 2018, a general hand written threat of a "shoot out" was found on a restroom wall at McGovern Elementary School. School administration immediately implemented a response in compliance with the District Crisis Management Plan. In collaboration with The Winston Police Department we are treating this as a serious situation.

The content of the threat was not specific as to any person, but did mention the date of March 12th in the message. For the period leading up to March 12th, and particularly on that day, we will be on heightened security alert district-wide. The heightened security alert may be extended depending on the events. The Winston Police will have an increased presence in the district during this period as well. Backpacks, packages and persons will be subject to search for weapons.

A major school concern is protecting the safety of our students and staff. Anyone with information concerning this threat or any other emergency may contact McGovern Elementary School at (541) 679-3003, the Winston-Dillard School District Office at (541) 679-3000, or the Winston Police Department at (541) 679-8706. Also, anonymous reporting is available via text, email or web at the district and/or school web page (www.wdsd.org) through SafeSchools Alert (https://wdsd-or.safeschoolsalert.com/).

Sincerely,

Jeremy P. WilliamsMES Principal

DEVELOPING STORY | This story will be updated as we receive more information.